Mercedes-Benz is planning to release an electric version of the B-class compact in the United States in 2014.

The B-class EV will offer a new front-wheel-drive platform, which was originally featured on the five-door B-class model that went on sale last year in Europe. The new EV will also use an electric motor, battery packs and other vehicle components from Tesla Motors.

"We want to bring another battery-powered vehicle to the market," said an anonymous source from Daimler AG, Mercedes' parent company.

In addition to the B-class EV, the U.S. will also receive three other models that offer the new platform starting next year. The three models are the A-class, a crossover, and CLA four-door with coupe styling.

The Daimler AG source added that the B-class hybrid that was due in 2014 has been postponed because zero-emission vehicles receive more incentives than those with a small internal combustion engine for range extending.

Range?? Which battery pack?? I would try to best guess the specs as they are using Tesla innards, but with a different frame, aerodynamics, what not, I would be way off.Why oh why doesn't a manufacturer other than Citroen make a diesel hybrid?? I would love to own one, but French build quality is pretty suspect.